Severe Tropical Cyclone Winston has been upgraded to Category 5.

As of 6pm tonight Tropical Cyclone Winston was located about 300 km East-North East of Lakeba or 580km East of Suva.

The Cyclone is moving at about 20km/hr.

Close to its centre the cyclone is estimated to have average wind speeds of 250km/hr and momentary gusts of 285km/hr.

On its current track, the Cyclone is expected to be located about 350km East of Suva at 6am tomorrow.

Winds are increasing to damaging gale force with average speeds of 75km/hr and gusts of upto 100km/hr.

A hurricane warning is now in force for Vanuabalavu, Yacata, Mago, Cicia, Tuvuca, Nayau, Koro, Gau and Vanuavatu.

A storm warning remains in force for Lakeba, Oneata, Moce, Komo, Namuka, Ogea and Kabara.